Dec. 15, 2012; Albuquerque; Then-Arizona cornerback Shaquille Richardson (5) intercepts the ball against Nevada in the 2012 New Mexico Bowl at University Stadium. Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The Chiefs signed cornerback Shaquille Richardson to a free-agent contract, according to Thursday’s NFL Transaction report.
Richardson originally entered the league in 2014 out of Arizona as a fifth-round pick (157th overall) of the Pittsburgh Steelers.
The Steelers waived Richardson in late August before signing him to the practice squad.
He then landed on Pittsburgh’s practice squad/injured reserve list on Oct. 15 with an unspecified injury before reaching an injury settlement with the Steelers on Oct. 20.
Richardson finished his college career appearing in 36 games with 24 starts, totaling 134 tackles (102 solo), seven interceptions, 26 pass breakups, three forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries.
The 6-0, 194-pound Richardson has the size the Chiefs covet in defensive backs. Richardson also has speed, having clocked a 4.43 40-yard dash time at his Pro Day in March 2014.
The signing of Richardson could be viewed as insurance in the event the Chiefs choose to not re-sign cornerback Chris Owens, who is scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent on March 10.
Defensive back Ron Parker, who can play cornerback and safety, and safety Kurt Coleman are also scheduled to become unrestricted free agents.
